Burns Emergency Care - Component 7

Questions and Answers

What is a burn defined as in the context of injury management?

An injury caused by energy transfer to the body’s tissues (correct)

An effect of exposure to extreme temperatures without injury

An abrasion of the skin caused by friction

An infection resulting from skin contact with foreign substances

Which type of burn is primarily caused by exposure to extreme cold?

Cold burn (correct)

Radiation burn

Electrical burn

Friction burn

What safety consideration is paramount when dealing with burn injuries?

Using a tourniquet to manage severe burns

Quickly applying petroleum jelly to burned skin

Ensuring the area is free from potential fire hazards (correct)

Applying ice directly to severe burns

Which of the following statements about burn assessment is incorrect?

Time since injury is irrelevant to the assessment Signup and view all the answers

Which demographic is most commonly associated with burn injuries from hot beverages?

Children Signup and view all the answers

What is typically a consequence of major burn injuries?

Compromise of skin integrity Signup and view all the answers

What type of burn can result from an electrical source?

Electrical burn Signup and view all the answers

In the context of burns, what factor is NOT time-critical?

The timing of the last meal Signup and view all the answers

Which appearance is characteristic of Deep Dermal burns?

Blotchy red skin with possible blistering Signup and view all the answers

What is a common cause of Full Thickness burns?

Immersion scald or high voltage electricity Signup and view all the answers

What symptom is NOT associated with Superficial Dermal burns?

Blisters present Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential complication of burns?

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes Mid-Dermal burns from other types?

Presence of large blisters and delayed capillary refill Signup and view all the answers

How does the skin appear in Epidermal burns?

Dry and red skin that blanches with pressure Signup and view all the answers

Which type of burn is referred to as a 2nd degree burn?

Superficial Dermal Signup and view all the answers

What is a common appearance of Full Thickness burns?

White, waxy or charred skin Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal when addressing airway burns?

To identify respiratory distress and correct it Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended duration for cooling a burn with running water?

20 minutes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a correct practice when treating a burn?

Submerging the limb in a bowl of water Signup and view all the answers

When should a burn patient be conveyed to A&E?

If burn/scald is greater than 20% in a child or 30% in an adult Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of using cling film on burn wounds?

It provides protection from infection without adhering to the wound Signup and view all the answers

What are early clinical interventions that may be necessary for burn patients?

Early intubation and fluid resuscitation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for contacting the trauma desk for burns?

If the burn is serious and advanced support may be needed Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario is early endotracheal intubation most critical?

In cases of respiratory distress from inhalation injuries Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Overview of Burns

A burn is an injury from energy transfer causing necrosis and inflammation.
In the UK, approximately 250,000 burn injuries occur annually, with 175,000 requiring emergency care.

Common Causes of Burns

Most burns occur at home, particularly in kitchens.
Children are often burned by hot beverages, adults by petrol ignition, and the elderly by hot water and heating appliances.

Types of Burns

Chemical: Caused by acids or alkaline substances.
Cold: Results in frostbite.
Electrical: Caused by power sources or lightning.
Friction: Occurs due to surface contact.
Radiation: From sun exposure or radiation sources.
Thermal: Caused by flames, scalds, or contact with hot surfaces.

Assessment and History Taking

Crucial to know the burn's cause, timing, duration of exposure, and cooling duration.
Must consider the possibility of non-accidental injuries.

Burn Classification

Epidermal (1st Degree): Superficial, caused by ultraviolet light; appears dry, red, and painful without blisters.
Superficial Dermal (2nd Degree): Caused by scalds; appears pale pink with fine blisters and extreme pain.
Mid-Dermal (2nd Degree): Caused by scalds or flames; reflects dark pink, large blisters, and may be painful with delayed capillary refill.
Deep Dermal (2nd Degree): Result of scalds or flames; characterized by blotchy red skin, no capillary refill, and no sensation.
Full Thickness (3rd Degree): Caused by serious burns like scalds or high-voltage electricity; shows white, waxy, or charred skin with no sensation.

Complications of Burns

Risk of inhalation injuries, hypotension, organ hypo-perfusion, bronchoconstriction, ARDS, and infections leading to sepsis.

Treatment Protocol

Prioritize safety and employ the AcBC approach for trauma emergencies.
Address airway burns or respiratory distress and maintain circulation.
First treatment involves cooling the burn with running water for a minimum of 20 minutes.
Remove clothing that isn’t stuck to the burn and avoid submerging limbs in water.
Use cling film to dress the burn without wrapping it tightly; provides protection and reduces pain.

Advanced Clinical Interventions

Early intubation and ventilation may be necessary.
Implement early pain relief and fluid resuscitation in acute cases.

Criteria for Referral to Major Trauma Centre

Burns exceeding 20% in children or 30% in adults.
Facial burns with skin loss and circumferential burns from flames require specialized care.

Summary of Key Actions

Prioritize safety when managing burns.
Cool the burn immediately to reduce damage.
Dress the wound appropriately and maintain patient warmth.
Consider advanced clinical support for severe cases.

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Description

This quiz focuses on understanding the management and treatment of both minor and major burn injuries. Participants will learn about different types of burns, their causes, and essential safety considerations for effective emergency care.